Rookey seeks Madrid highway superintendent post

MADRID - A 23-year veteran of the Madrid Highway Department wants the top job.

Steven G. Rookey, a lifetime resident of Madrid, is the Republican candidate for the job.

Mr. Rookey is challenging incumbent Democrat William R. Barkley Jr. He is seeking re-election to a second four-year term. The town highway superintendents annual salary is $42,250, according to Town Clerk Judy A. Hargrave.

Mr. Rookey signed on with the highway department in 1990 when he was hired by the late John McCall, then the towns highway superintendent.

Twenty-three years ago, I was given the opportunity by Jack McCall to work for the highway department, Mr. Rookey said. Since that time I have worked in the sewer department, water department, worked on road maintenance and repair as well as I have put in countless hours of snow removal.

Mr. Rookey believes that his length of service in his job and to the town qualifies him for the position.

I feel working together with a strong board combined with my 23 years of experience already in the highway department makes me the perfect candidate for Madrid highway superintendent.

The highway department has a five-man crew in addition to the superintendent.

The department has 22 pieces of equipment. Its proposed 2014 budget is $742,650.

Mr. Rookey is the son of Gary and Helen Rookey.

He resides at 43 Caroline St.

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